Nashville, August 28, 2025
News Summary
Nashville Councilwoman Joy Kimbrough faces allegations of soliciting a $500,000 bribe from a local business owner in exchange for support on a district project. The complaint filed by Ryan Moses, CEO of Best Brands, claims Kimbrough demanded funds to influence the allocation of a community benefit. While community support for the project grows, Kimbrough has denied the allegations. The Metro Legal Department is investigating, with findings expected by September 9.
Nashville Councilwoman Joy Kimbrough is under investigation for alleged ethics violations after a Nashville business owner accused her of attempting to coerce him into providing a substantial bribe to support a local project. The complaint was filed by Ryan Moses, CEO of Best Brands, who reported that Kimbrough solicited $500,000 in exchange for controlling the allocation of a $150,000 community benefit for her district project.
The alleged coercive incident took place on April 24, when Kimbrough reached out to Moses regarding community support for her district’s project. Moses claims that Kimbrough explicitly demanded the $500,000 while explaining that it was a requirement for him to help with the allocation of funds. Despite Moses questioning Kimbrough’s demand, she reportedly affirmed that it was her stance and what she wanted.
Many members of the community, including Joe Bond, a longtime resident of Bordeaux, have expressed support for the Best Brands warehouse proposal, stating that it would bring positive benefits to the area. However, Kimbrough quickly dismissed the project, telling constituents just a day after her conversation with Moses that she would not support it and claiming that no monetary offer could persuade her to change her mind.
In response to the allegations, Kimbrough has accused Moses of spreading falsehoods and referred to him in disparaging terms. Her public response did not address whether she genuinely made the request for $500,000. When discussing the situation privately with Bond, Kimbrough stated she had been “bluffing,” yet she did not provide any rationale for her actions or why she felt the need to bluff regarding the request.
Support for the Best Brands project is gaining momentum among constituents, with over 150 signatures collected on a petition advocating for the warehouse’s development, which counters Kimbrough’s claims that her district was opposed to it.
At present, Kimbrough has not yet produced the text messages and emails she stated would support her denial of the allegations against her. The matter is currently under review by the Metro Legal Department, which is expected to issue a report regarding the complaint by September 9.
The outcomes of the investigation into Kimbrough’s conduct may range from dismissal of the complaint to a hearing, or potential sanctions. Possible sanctions could include a warning, censure, or depending on the findings, referral for criminal charges should significant violations be determined.
Community Reaction
The allegations against Kimbrough have sparked varied responses from the community. Many residents believe that the Best Brands project would benefit the local economy and infrastructure, while others are concerned about the allegations affecting the integrity of local governance.
Next Steps
The investigation will proceed with further scrutiny into the collected evidence. The Metro Board of Ethical Conduct will ultimately decide the course of action based on the findings derived from the legal department’s report.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ethics allegations against Joy Kimbrough?
Joy Kimbrough has been accused of coercing Nashville business owner Ryan Moses into providing a $500,000 bribe to secure support for a project in her district.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The Metro Legal Department is currently reviewing the complaint against Kimbrough, and a report is expected by September 9.
What actions can be taken against Kimbrough?
The Board of Ethical Conduct can either dismiss the complaint, hold a hearing, or impose sanctions, which may include a warning, censure, or even referral for criminal charges, depending on the findings.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Nashville |
| Key Individual | Joy Kimbrough (Metro Councilwoman) |
| Allegations | Demand for a $500,000 bribe |
| Complaining Individual | Ryan Moses (CEO of Best Brands) |
| Date of Incident | April 24 |
| Community Support | Over 150 signatures for Best Brands project |
| Investigation Status | Review by Metro Legal Department |
| Findings Due | September 9 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- NewsChannel 5 Investigates
- Tennessean
- Nashville Scene
- Tennessean
- Tennessean
- Wikipedia: Ethics in Government
- Google Search: Joy Kimbrough Nashville ethics complaint
- Google Scholar: Nashville City Council ethics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ethics
- Google News: Joy Kimbrough ethics investigation
Author: HERE Nashville
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